DHC freight surcharge: A standard operational fee charged by the destination freight forwarder or handling agent to cover basic services such as cargo receipt, customs clearance assistance, document processing, and delivery coordination. Corresponds to HLC (Handling Charge) at origin. Similar to HLA (Handling Agent) fee at destination.. This page explains Destination Handling Charge as seen in China export freight quotes, shows typical DHC costs ($40-100/per B/L based on Chinese shipping rates), the calculation formula, and whether overseas importers and freight forwarders can negotiate it away.
DHCImport ChargesNegotiable
Destination Handling Charge (DHC)
A standard operational fee charged by the destination freight forwarder or handling agent to cover basic services such as cargo receipt, customs clearance assistance, document processing, and delivery coordination. Corresponds to HLC (Handling Charge) at origin. Similar to HLA (Handling Agent) fee at destination.
Per Shipment
Category:Basic Shipping FeeChina Export Local ChargesDestination Import Charges
Applies to:
FCLLCLAirRailCourierRoadFBAAs Request
Typical Cost Range
$40–$100
per Bill of Lading
DHC is typically a flat fee per Bill of Lading, ranging from $40-$100/BL. This is a standard charge in international shipping, similar to HLA (Handling Agent) at destination.
Who Pays?
Shipper (When CIF, DAP)
Consignee (When EXW, FOB)
Negotiability
Negotiable — discuss with your freight forwarder.
DHC is a customary charge at destination. Rates can be negotiated especially for high-volume importers or regular shipments.
Adjustment Frequency
MonthlyWeeklyFixed
Current rate reviewed: Per Bill of Lading
Chargeable Unit
Per B/L
Formula / Calculation
DHC = Flat Rate per Bill of Lading (negotiated with destination forwarder/agent)
destinationhandlingforwarderagentimportB/L
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DHC the same as DTHC?
No. DTHC (Destination Terminal Handling Charge) is the port terminal handling charge. DHC is charged by the destination forwarder/agent for basic operational services — corresponding to HLC at origin.
Is DHC the same as HLA?
Yes, DHC and HLA (Handling Agent) are similar fees. Both refer to the handling charge at destination charged by the forwarder or handling agent for basic services.